Røros and Østerdalen
Travel back in time
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Røros in Trøndelag is one of Europe’s oldest wooden towns and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The colourful wooden houses hold centuries of history, from the charming streets all the way down to …
… the old copper mines, like the Olav’s Mine.
Røros came into existence in 1644, after the first copper discovery in the area. Over the years, it became one of the most important mining towns in Norway.
The people of Røros have preserved the town’s original charm, with houses dating back to the 1700s and 1800s, as well as the surrounding cultural landscape.
Explore by yourself or …
... travel back in time on a guided tour.
One of the top attractions is the old Røros Church, also called Bergstadens Ziir, which means the pride of the mining town.
Just look at the architecture, the details ...
… and not to mention how beautiful it is inside.
Spend a night or two in one of Røros' historic hotels, like Erzscheidergården. This charming hotel has a great view of the church and a delicious breakfast full of local delicacies!
Røros is also one of Norway’s leading regions for locally produced food.
Taste the traditional flat pastry Pjalt, often served with brown cheese, as well as products from the Røros organic dairy company, such as Tjukkmjølk, a thick fermented milk that can be used like yoghurt or for baking.
In summer, you can sign up for a local food safari and try everything from fermented fish (rakfisk), and reindeer meat to award-winning cheeses and farm produce from Eggen Gardsysteri and Galåvolden Gård.
The delicacies are available in the town’s cosy eateries throughout the year as well.
The barren landscape and low temperatures in the area mean that food grows slowly and develops a truly distinctive flavour – which is also much appreciated by the region’s many reindeer.
Note that you should never approach wild or tame reindeer without permission. If you run into them on a hike, quietly sit down until they leave, or calmly walk away if they haven't noticed you yet.
The beautiful nature surrounding Røros is worth exploring too.
Venture into the national parks Femundsmarka and Forollhogna, where you can go hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Or head to Northern Europe’s largest canyon, Jutulhogget.
If you’re longing for a relaxing day by the lake, the historic M/S Fæmund II offers boat trips on the Femunden lake during summer.
In Alvdal, south of Røros, you can also drive up Norway’s second-highest road to the top of mount Tronfjellet, which offers panoramic views of the area.
Alvdal also offers family fun at Huset Aukrust! This museum and activity centre celebrates the imaginative life and work of artist Kjell Aukrust. Check out the chocolate machine and explore the rocket ship!
Stop by Søberg Gård just outside of Alvdal for tasty local treats at the farm shop. There's also a candle grotto full of candles in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes they even host concerts!
In winter, people often use a “spark” (kick-sledge) to get around Røros. Try for yourself and stop by the independent shops and workshops that sell locally made ceramics, clothing, and food.
Since Røros is one of Norway’s coldest cities in winter, you might want to do as the locals: wrap up in wool!
Knitted sweaters and mittens from a local shop or warm blankets and seating pads from Røros Tweed – it’s all nice to have when the temperatures plummet to minus 20.
The bonus of the cold weather is all the snow!
Snuggle up under a sheepskin blanket on a sleigh ride, go skiing, or try your hand at dog sledding.
One of the most famous winter traditions is the annual Christmas market, as Røros is one of Norway’s top Christmas destinations.
The decorations, the market stalls, and the genuine Christmas spirit – it’s the perfect scene for a nostalgic holiday celebration.
Step back in time in historic Røros.